As the world marks International Men’s Day on 19 November, the Mustadafin Foundation celebrates the strength of positive male role models and the importance of guiding young men towards futures built on respect, empathy, and purpose.
This year’s theme, Supporting men and boys, aligns closely with Mustadafin’s Boyhood to Manhood programme, which equips boys with the tools, guidance, and support they need to grow into responsible men who uplift their families and communities.
The programme, rooted in mentorship and life skills development, focuses on emotional intelligence, accountability, and healthy decision-making. Through honest conversations about topics such as mental health, relationships, and respect for women, participants learn that strength is not measured by dominance, but by discipline, integrity, and compassion.
“Many of the boys we work with have not always had positive male figures to look up to,” says Ghairunisa Johnstone-Cassiem, director of Mustadafin Foundation. “Boyhood to Manhood gives them a sense of belonging and purpose. It helps them realise they can break negative cycles and lead with respect.”
Mustadafin believes that empowering boys with the right values and guidance contributes to a more peaceful, equal, and resilient society. As men across South Africa face growing challenges related to mental health and suicide, Mustadafin continues to emphasise the importance of open dialogue, emotional awareness, and early intervention.
International Men’s Day is not only about celebrating men’s achievements, but also about challenging harmful stereotypes, improving gender relations, and ensuring every boy has access to positive guidance on his journey to manhood.
“Real change starts with teaching our boys that respect, kindness, and accountability are signs of true strength,” adds Johnstone-Cassiem. “Our role as mentors is to help them see that the way they treat others, especially women and children, defines the kind of men they become.”
Through its Boyhood to Manhood initiative, Mustadafin continues to shape a generation of thoughtful, caring, and community-minded young men. Mustadafin’s message this International Men’s Day is clear: when we invest in our boys, we build stronger men, safer homes, and a more hopeful future for all.
